The transportation equipment painters are responsible for painting vehicles like cars, buses, and trucks.This might involve painting intricate designs or simply reapplying paint to cover up scratches and other damage.Basic requirements are needed to become an auto body painter.
Step 1: You need to finish your high school or GED.
Before you can work as an auto body painter, you need to have a high school degree or GED.You could take classes at a community center or community college if you haven't already done so.If one is available to you, you may be able to improve your chances of getting work as an auto body painter by taking a high school shop class.You can dual enroll in high schools if you want to take a class not offered at your school.You might be able to take a shop class at a community college your junior or senior year if you inquire with a teacher or school counselor first.
Step 2: Keep a clean driving record and get a license.
In many cases, auto body painters will have to move the vehicles of customers.You will need a license to do so.Employers want a clean driving record as proof of your responsibility since you'll also be responsible for the care of expensive vehicles.
Step 3: You should be familiar with manual transmissions.
At some point in your career as an auto body painter, you'll probably have to work on a manual transmission vehicle, also called a stick shift.Many employers require auto body painters to be able to drive both manual and automatic transmission cars.A friend or family member can teach you how to drive a stick shift.When doing that, be patient.It may take a while to learn how to drive a manual.
Step 4: Understand the responsibilities of auto body painting.
You will be expected to do many other things to prepare vehicles for painting.This could include removing rust, dirt or debris from the surface you are painting, filling in dents and taping off boundaries to create a smooth, even surface.You will need to be able to pick the correct paint and equipment for the project.This information can be found in courses on auto body repair or on-the-job training.
Step 5: There is a job related to auto body work.
It's a good idea to get a look at the basics before applying for a job as an auto body painter.While you're on the job, ask your coworkers questions about how the process works and the techniques used.There are many companies that promote from within.If you start working the front desk of an auto paint shop and express interest in becoming a painter, you may be able to get trained in the position and transfer from your desk positionYou may be able to get a job as an auto body painter.You can mention on-the-job training in your resume and interviews.
Step 6: Write your resume.
If you have experience in automotive work, you should highlight it in your resume.This might include working in a body shop, tinkering with classic cars as a hobby, or even a degree in art or painting.If you're interviewing for a job, you may want to bring finished pictures of your automotive work from the past.
Step 7: There are people in the auto industry.
If you're into the automotive scene, it's likely you know other people who share your interest.These people may be able to give you information about a job opening or refer you to an auto shop.When telling your automotive friends that you're looking for a job as an auto body painter, be clear and direct.You can connect with people in the automotive industry on networking sites.
Step 8: You can apply at local auto body paint shops.
Waiting until there is a posting online or in the newspaper for an open position as auto body painter can result in wasted time.Even if there are no openings, there's nothing wrong with applying.In case a position opens in the future, many companies keep resumes on file.If your resume is on file, you could be called back for an interview eventually.
Step 9: Follow up with potential employers.
Many people are applying for the same position.If you want to stand out from the crowd and express your interest in the job, you should follow up your interview with a call inquiring about the status of your application.
Step 10: If you can, practice in your free time.
If you can't afford the professional equipment for auto body painting, you may not be able to do it on your own.You can get experience painting or touching up cars of friends and relatives if you do.You can save money by buying your own auto body painting equipment.You could even do your own auto body painting once you are experienced.
Step 11: Take a course in auto body painting.
Community colleges and trade schools offer courses in auto body and paint technology.You will become more desirable to potential employers if you complete a course.If the program is already at capacity, there's little risk of you being turned down.
Step 12: A degree from an associate's degree is required.
If you have little or no experience in the auto body field, getting an associate's degree can improve your chances of being accepted as an apprenticeship.Employers look at further education as a sign that potential employees have the skills necessary to learn the trade.An associate's degree in an automotive related field, like auto body collision repair, will be looked at more favorably than other degrees, but even one unrelated field will show you have the perseverance to learn new things.
Step 13: Gain experience with the trade's tools.
If you have hands-on experience with automotive related hand tools and other aspects of automotive work, you will have a better chance of being chosen for a position as an auto body worker.You can include this information in your resume or cover letter.
Step 14: Become certified.
ASE offers a certificate program for automotive painters.The certification requires you to have at least 2 years of automotive painting experience or 1 year of training that meets ASE standards.It takes a written examination to get the voluntary certification.You need to take the exam every 5 years to keep the certification.